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Sylvain DistinFrench footballer, defender.
Date of Birth: 16.12.1977
Country:  France |
Content:
- Sylvain Distin: A Versatile French Defender
- Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United
- Manchester City
- Portsmouth and Everton
- Everton
- International Career
Sylvain Distin: A Versatile French Defender
Early CareerSylvain Distin embarked on his football journey with Joué-lès-Tours in 1997. He joined Tours the following year before securing a move to second-tier club Gueugnon in 1999. With Gueugnon, Distin triumphed in the Coupe de la Ligue in 2000.
Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United
The same year, Distin made a significant step in his career by joining French giants Paris Saint-Germain. However, his stay in Paris was short-lived as he was loaned out to English club Newcastle United for the 2001/02 Premier League season, where he made 28 appearances.
Manchester City
After impressing during his loan spell, Distin declined Newcastle's permanent offer and opted for Manchester City in a £4 million deal, setting a club transfer record for a defender. His consistent performances for the "Citizens" earned him the Player of the Year award for the 2002/03 season. He became the team captain in the subsequent campaign following Ali Benarbia's departure. Distin played a total of 207 games for Manchester City, scoring six goals.
Portsmouth and Everton
Upon the expiration of his contract with Manchester City in May 2007, Distin joined Portsmouth on a free transfer, signing a three-year deal. Manager Harry Redknapp appointed him as vice-captain of the team. In 2008, Distin helped Portsmouth win the FA Cup. After Sol Campbell's departure in the summer of 2009, Distin became Portsmouth's captain. However, he only captained the team on three occasions before moving to Everton in late August 2009, agreeing to a three-year contract.
Everton
During his debut season with the "Toffees," Distin made 37 appearances in all competitions, including two goals in the UEFA Europa League. In the 2010/11 season, he played every single Premier League match and scored two goals, one in the Merseyside derby.
International Career
In addition to playing for the French national team, Distin could have represented the non-FIFA member Guadeloupe, as his father was born there. Prior to the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Distin was offered a chance to play for Guadeloupe but declined the invitation.
